EDCTP-PACTR virtual workshop on enhancing the functionality of the PACTR registry
The virtual workshop held on 20 November 2024, hosted by the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR) in collaboration with EDCTP, was a resounding success. More than 100 participants from diverse roles in clinical research, including Principal Investigators (PIs), clinical research coordinators, regulatory affairs compliance officers, quality coordinators, trial research methodologists, clinical trial operation managers, and other clinical trial professionals took part. The high level of engagement and participation demonstrated the widespread interest in optimising the PACTR registry. EDCTP was represented by Dr Thomas Nyirenda, Strategic Partnerships and Capacity Development Manager and the Head of Africa Office, who contributed valuable insights during the discussions.
The workshop featured interactive sessions, including live polls that provided valuable insights into participants’ roles, their challenges during registration, and the ease of updating trial information post-registration.
A live demonstration of the registration process was conducted, providing participants with practical guidance. PACTR highlighted recent upgrades to its database, including a feature allowing administrators to review and approve all changes to registered records before they are published on the public trial display. Additional updates introduced in 2023 include the acceptance of certain observational studies and non-randomised trials, broadening the types of trials accommodated by the registry. Future enhancements to improve the registry’s quality and functionality are contingent on available funding and compliance with the standards set by the World Health Organization’s International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO-ICTRP). Notably, while prospective registration remains the accepted practice, PACTR also permits retrospective registration.
The workshop was an excellent platform for sharing best practices, identifying challenges, and fostering stronger collaboration between EDCTP, PACTR, and the broader research community. The full webinar recording is available on the Cochrane South Africa YouTube channel for those who missed the session or would like to revisit the discussions. For any further inquiries, PACTR can be contacted via email at pactradmin2@mrc.ac.za .
Visit the PACTR website for more information.